Disabling ads on Windows 11 might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. By tweaking a few settings, you can enjoy an ad-free experience. This article will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can easily navigate and accomplish this task.
How to Disable Ads on Windows 11
In the following steps, we’ll guide you through the process of turning off those pesky ads that pop up in various parts of Windows 11. This includes ads in the Start menu, lock screen, and other built-in apps. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard.
You’ll find that the Settings app is your main control hub for all things Windows 11. From here, you can access various settings, including those that control advertisements.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Next, in the Settings app, click on “Personalization” from the sidebar.
Personalization settings allow you to control the appearance and behavior of Windows 11, including customizations for your Start menu and lock screen where ads can appear.
Step 3: Disable Ads in the Start Menu
Click on “Start” in the Personalization menu and turn off the toggle for “Show suggestions occasionally in Start.”
This particular setting controls those little app suggestions that Windows likes to sprinkle in your Start menu. Turning it off will stop these suggestions.
Step 4: Disable Ads on the Lock Screen
Go back to the Personalization menu, then click on “Lock screen” and set the background to “Picture” or “Slideshow” instead of “Windows spotlight.”
Windows spotlight often shows beautiful images, but it can also show ads. By switching to Picture or Slideshow, you eliminate the chance of seeing ads.
Step 5: Turn Off App Suggestions and Tips
Now, go to “System” in the Settings app, then click on “Notifications & actions” and turn off the toggle for “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.”
Windows likes to give you tips, which can sometimes be ads in disguise. Disabling this will ensure you don’t see those unwanted suggestions.
Step 6: Disable Targeted Ads
Head over to “Privacy & security” in the Settings app, then click on “General” and turn off the toggle for “Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID.”
By turning off personalized ads, you’ll make sure that apps can’t show you targeted advertisements based on your usage.
After completing these steps, you’ll notice a much cleaner and ad-free Windows 11 experience. Ads in the Start menu, lock screen, and various apps should be significantly reduced or completely gone.
Tips for Disabling Ads on Windows 11
- Regularly check for updates to ensure new ad settings aren’t enabled by default.
- Use a local account instead of a Microsoft account to reduce personalized ad targeting.
- Consider installing third-party ad-blocking software for a more comprehensive ad-free experience.
- Occasionally review your privacy settings as they can change with updates.
- Use alternative apps that are known for fewer ads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows 11 have ads?
Microsoft includes ads to promote its own services and apps, helping fund the development of Windows.
Do I need an internet connection to disable ads?
You’ll need an internet connection to access some settings and updates, but the steps to disable ads don’t require active internet access.
Can I re-enable ads if I want to?
Yes, you can easily go back into the same settings and turn the toggles back on if you wish to re-enable ads.
Will disabling ads affect my system performance?
No, disabling ads should not negatively impact system performance; it may actually make your system run a bit smoother.
Are there any ads that can’t be turned off?
Some ads, especially those built into certain apps, may not be entirely removable without uninstalling the app itself.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization.
- Disable ads in the Start menu.
- Disable ads on the lock screen.
- Turn off app suggestions and tips.
- Disable targeted ads.
Conclusion
Disabling ads on Windows 11 can make a big difference in your user experience. It not only reduces distractions but also helps in maintaining a cleaner interface. Plus, it’s a simple process that takes only a few minutes.
With this guide, you now have the tools to turn off those annoying ads and enjoy a more streamlined Windows 11. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might be looking to do the same. For further reading, check out other tips and tricks to optimize your Windows 11 experience. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.